What is 2-1-1? It’s a number you dial on the phone to get help with information and resources that government agencies or nonprofits might be able to assist you with receiving.

According to the national United Way website, 2-1-1 is available anywhere in the United States, 24 hours a day, seven days a week–and all calls are private and confidential.

2-1-1 assistance is provided in all languages. The website has an option in the upper right corner to select the language needed.

“Whether in times of natural disaster or personal crisis, 2-1-1 is committed to being the first, most essential resource to anyone who needs help,” according to the organization’s website.

According to the United Way of Houston’s website, 2-1-1 is a free service that can provide “help finding child care, food stamps, care for an aging parent or a haven from domestic violence, 2-1-1 is the number to call when you don’t know who to call.”

The helpline has specialists who can provide information and resources. Last year, according to the website, 2-1-1 Texas/United Way HELPLINE answered 957,600 calls for help with “basic needs, like food, utilities and health care … followed by rent assistance and help finding shelter.”

Here is the link to email 2-1-1 for the Greater Houston area or learn more, or you can reach them via phone by dialing 2-1-1.

If you live in other areas, you can access the national website to locate one of the 1,800 United Ways near you providing 2-1-1, or you can dial 2-1-1 to access your area’s network.

Some United Ways provide apps for their area as well, including Austin, according to a report in the The Street.